Tent campsites near Fort Smith, Arkansas range from developed sites with showers to primitive areas along riverbanks. The region sits where the Arkansas River Valley meets the Ozark Mountains, creating diverse camping environments between 400-1,500 feet elevation. Summer temperatures frequently reach 90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall camping offers mild 60-75°F days with cooler nights.
What to do
Swimming in natural settings: Jack Creek Recreation Area has a popular swimming hole that attracts campers during warmer months. As one visitor noted, "When the weather is nice, there's a swimming hole. I will be returning here someday. It's too beautiful to pass up while driving through the area!"
Kayaking on mountain rivers: Horseshoe Bend Primitive Public Use Area offers direct access to the Illinois River. A camper shared, "Kayakers put in and paddle upstream and float back to boat landing. Across the river will be rock cliffs that make you want to launch the kayak and explore."
Mountain biking on established trails: Trails at COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake are popular with both hikers and mountain bikers. One reviewer mentioned, "There are great trails on site for mountain biking or hiking. I saw deer, a snake, and what looked like a coyote on the trail."
Bird watching opportunities: Multiple camping areas provide habitat for native birds. A visitor to Horseshoe Bend noted, "This is a bird watcher's paradise... I was able to see multiple species of Oklahoma's woodpeckers, some birds of prey, and many songbirds."
What campers like
Waterfall sounds for sleep: Natural Dam offers primitive camping near a small but scenic waterfall. A camper mentioned, "A little road noise off in the distance but the waterfall all but drowned it out," while another noted the "stunning, relaxing and cool" views.
Private riverside spots: Many campers appreciate the secluded riverside locations. At Riverfield Acreage on White River, a visitor shared, "Kids loved having the rock bed and river right beside us. Saw more stars than I have seen, ever. No WiFi or service so we got to completely relax and enjoy nature!"
Spacious campsites: Campers frequently mention site size as a benefit in the region. At COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake Springhill Campground, a reviewer noted, "Stayed in campground B $20 for the night with water and electric hook ups. Sites are large with flat paved parking pad."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to see native wildlife. One camper at COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake mentioned seeing "deer, a snake, and what looked like a coyote on the trail," making wildlife viewing an additional attraction.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Some primitive sites require careful driving. At Pigeon Creek Dispersed, a camper advised, "The road in was a little bumpy take it slow and you'll be fine."
Pack-in, pack-out required: Most primitive sites lack trash facilities. A visitor to Horseshoe Bend noted, "I had to pick up some trash so please PACK IT IN PACK OUT."
Some sites prohibit overnight stays: Rules can change without updated signage. A recent visitor to Horseshoe Bend warned, "We did camp there in a tent for one night, but were politely told by a game warden the next day that, though it used to be open for that, it is no longer allowed."
Cell service varies by location: Some sites offer good connectivity while others don't. At Natural Dam, a camper reported, "Starlink and Verizon very spotty here," while another at COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake noted, "Cell service was excellent with AT&T and Verizon."
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with swimming access: Eagles Point — Tenkiller State Park offers family-friendly water recreation. A visitor noted, "The lake was perfect for kayaking... The water was really clean and clear."
Consider sites with playgrounds: Some campgrounds offer play areas for children. A reviewer at COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake mentioned, "Located in both loops are a bath/shower building, playground, and pavilion."
Check for educational opportunities: Some sites offer nature programs. At Eagles Point, a camper shared, "It has a marina a boat dock a floating restaurant a volleyball court hiking trails a fishing dock plenty of wildlife restrooms showers playgrounds nature center gift shop."
Plan for limited facilities: Many primitive sites lack basic amenities. At Natural Dam, a camper reported, "Beautiful spot, no facilities. Pulled in about 7 pm. Several cars there but no other campers. Quiet evening without disturbance."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven sites. At Gates Nature Preserve, tent camping is recommended as the terrain may be difficult for RVs. One camper described their tent site as "so cozy with a table, a fire pit and a grill."
Access restrictions for larger vehicles: Many primitive sites have limited access. At Horseshoe Bend, a camper warned, "Where we were going no large travel trailer should go. I suggest that only tent campers or very high clearance cars or trucks go."
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking. At COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake, a camper explained, "You need to make a reservation on recreation.gov in order to pay for a spot. We didn't know this in advance but were able to find a spot, log in and pay for the site we picked."
Campsite amenities vary: Check what's provided before arrival. A visitor to COE John Paul Hammerschmidt Lake noted, "There were showers, bathrooms, picnic tables, fire pits and a pole with a hook to keep the critters out of your stuff I'm guessing, also a dump station and water and a playground."
